There are many options for organizing your collection of books on the shelves. Some readers organize by author. Others take a more aesthetic approach and group their reading material by cover color or size. However you choose to organize your library, one thing’s true for everyone: We eventually run out of space. When shelves of books turn into stacks on tables, nightstands, and floors, Morningstar Storage can help. Our climate controlled storage units are perfect for holding on to those treasured times you just can’t bear to part with, but are tired of tripping over.
Create a Book Inventory
One of the most important parts of storing anything is to make an inventory, and books are no exception. This can be as specific or simple as you’d like. If you’re a curator of first edition copies of famous novels (or even some obscure ones), noting those details is probably important. Otherwise, you’re probably good with the title, author, and maybe whether the book is hardback or paperback.
To make this process even easier, check out popular apps like Goodreads and Libib. These allow you to scan the barcodes on your books and input that info into your library automatically—something that can make cataloging as you pack a real breeze. Libib can even catalog your vinyl records, too. If there’s anything you want to give to a friend or donate, this is an excellent time to do it!
Pack Your Books
Books are best packed in small boxes. Too many books in one box can make it too heavy to lift. In the worst-case scenario, even the sturdiest cardboard box can buckle underneath that strain. Use a double-layer of tape over the seams of the box and divide your collection up into hardback and paperback books.
Packing Hardcover Books
Pack hardcover books upright, with the spines facing the box’s side. You can wrap each book in paper and place cardboard in between each one to keep their spines straight, but otherwise packing vertically is the most important part. Make sure they’re snugly inside the box, then fill any gaps with packing paper or bubble wrap to limit their movement during transit.
Packing Paperback Books
With paperback books, you can pack them a variety of ways. You can place them inside the box in flat stacks or pack them with the spines facing downward. Just don’t pack them with their paper edges facing downward. This causes the pages to bend and can damage them. Take care not to put them in at odd angles. Much like with hardback books, fill any extra space with wadded-up paper or other padding.
Once your books are packed, label the box clearly. Whether you write “books” along the sides or something more specific is up to you!
Find a Climate Controlled Storage Unit at Morningstar Storage
When you need to rehome some of the books in your collection, self storage at Morningstar Storage is a great place to start. Our friendly team of storage experts can help you determine how much storage space you need, whether you’re only storing books or looking to clear out a couple extra rooms, too. To get started, find a location near you.
